ECO code: D24
Opening Name: Queen's Gambit Accepted (QGA): 4.Nc3 e6 5.Bg5
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 e6 5. Bg5
Description: This line in the Queen's Gambit Accepted features White developing the knight to c3 and then pinning Black’s knight on f6 with 5.Bg5. The move Bg5 is characteristic for putting immediate pressure on Black’s knight, which supports the central e4-square and helps Black contest White’s central control.
Characteristic of 5.Bg5: The bishop pin aims to restrict Black’s kingside flexibility and to potentially provoke weaknesses if Black tries to break the pin. It also supports White’s plan to regain the c4-pawn under favorable circumstances while maintaining a presence in the center.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, 5.Bg5 is an attacking move, actively challenging Black’s setup and increasing pressure on the center and kingside. Black’s position remains solid but must be careful to respond accurately to avoid falling into a passive stance.
Center Control: This opening continues White’s focus on controlling the center. Although White has temporarily allowed Black to capture the c4-pawn, moves like 4.Nc3 and 5.Bg5 help White regain central influence and prepare to challenge Black’s pawn structure and piece placement.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the QGA: 4.Nc3 e6 5.Bg5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #9 white